K53 Million Boost for Science and Technology

The Government has invested more than K53 million in research, development and technology innovation to strengthen Zambia's scientific capacity and support entrepreneurship.

The National Science and Technology Council, NSTC, says more than K21.3 million was disbursed through the National Research Fund between 2020 and 2026, supporting 30 research projects and 45 students.

NSTC Executive Secretary Professor Michelo Syakalima said the funded projects spanned key sectors including agriculture, health and mining value addition. Speaking to ZNBC News, he highlighted the development of insect protein feed at Copperbelt University and long-term COVID-19 research at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University as examples of the work being supported.

The National Technology Business Centre, NTBC, has also played a significant role. Its Director and Chief Executive Officer Hachoombwa N'gandu said the centre disbursed about K32.5 million to innovators and entrepreneurs through the Technology Business Development Fund over the past five years.

Mr N'gandu said the funding had helped 22 start-ups commercialise new technologies and create jobs, demonstrating the growing link between research and enterprise in Zambia. He added that the NTBC received 135 funding applications last year, a sign of rising demand for support among the country's innovators.

He called for stronger policy backing and increased investment to expand business incubation and entrepreneurship programmes, arguing that sustained funding would be vital to nurturing the next generation of Zambian innovators and building a more competitive, knowledge-driven economy.